VICTIM SERVICES

In the Interior Health (IH) region, victim services are a collaboration between specialized hospital-based medical teams and community/police-based advocacy programs.

If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. For 24/7 confidential support and referrals, contact VictimLinkBC at 1-800-563-0808.

1. Interior Health Medical & Forensic Services

Interior Health provides specialized medical care for victims of violence through Forensic Nursing and specialized clinics.

• Forensic Nursing Services (FNS):

  • What they do: Provide 24/7 emergency care, injury documentation, and evidence collection (rape kits) for survivors of sexual assault or domestic violence.

  • Locations: Available at major hospitals including Kelowna General (KGH), Royal Inland (Kamloops), Vernon Jubilee, and Penticton Regional.

  • How to access: Go to the Emergency Department and ask to speak with a Forensic Nurse.

• Sexual Assault Service (SAS) Clinics:

  • These clinics provide follow-up medical care, STI testing, and crisis support in a non-emergency setting.

  • Okanagan: The Oak Tree Clinic (not to be confused with the Vancouver site) and specialized units within KGH provide trauma-informed gynecological care.

• Child & Youth Advocacy Centres (CYACs):

  • Interior Health partners with these centers to provide a "one-stop" location for children who have experienced abuse.

  • Kelowna: Child Advocacy Centre of Kelowna

  • Kamloops: Sussex Advocacy Centre

2. Police-Based Victim Services

Located within local RCMP detachments, these advocates assist with the legal process, provide updates on police files, and help with Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) applications.

Location

Contact Number

Kelowna RCMP Victim Services

250-470-6242

Kamloops RCMP Victim Services

250-828-3223

Vernon/North Okanagan Victim Services

250-260-7161

Penticton/South Okanagan Victim Services

250-492-4300

Cranbrook/East Kootenay Victim Services

250-489-3471

Nelson/West Kootenay Victim Services

250-354-3919

3. Community-Based Victim Services

These are non-profit organizations that offer long-term support, specialized counseling, and transition housing specifically for victims of domestic or sexual violence.

• Elizabeth Fry Society (Multiple Locations):

  • Central Okanagan (Kelowna): 250-763-4613

  • Kamloops: 250-374-2119

• Safe Society (Salmon Arm): 250-832-9616

• Castlegar & District Community Services: 250-365-2104

• Kootenay Outreach: Specialized support for women and children in rural areas.

4. Provincial Financial Support

• Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP):

  • This provincial program provides financial benefits to victims, immediate family members, and witnesses to help with the effects of a crime. It can cover counseling fees, medical expenses, and protective measures.

  • Phone: 1-866-660-3888